The Ogun and Lagos state governments have commiserated with the family of veteran actor, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, over his passing.
The Ogun State Government said it received with deep sadness the death of the filmmaker, describing it as a monumental loss to the state, Nigeria’s creative industry and the entire nation.
“He was not merely an accomplished actor; he was a shining light whose remarkable talent, discipline and enduring commitment helped to elevate Nigerian culture and project the richness of Yoruba heritage to audiences at home and across the world,” it said in a press statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade.
The state government stated that throughout his illustrious career, Hassan distinguished himself by his exceptional artistry, humility, candour, dignity and respect for others, carrying himself with uncommon grace and professionalism, earning the admiration of colleagues, fans and generations of Nigerians.
“As an Ilaro-born son of Ogun State, Ogogo remained a proud ambassador of his roots. Through his work in theatre, film and television, he contributed immensely to the preservation, promotion and propagation of Nigeria’s cultural heritage, particularly the Yoruba language, traditions and values.
“His passing has therefore created a painful void that will be deeply felt—not only by his immediate family and the people of Ilaro and Ogun State, but also by the Nigerian artistic community, his countless admirers and the millions of people who encountered his work and were inspired by his talent.”
“On behalf of the Ogun State Government and the good people of the state, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues in the creative industry, the people of Ilaro and his numerous fans across Nigeria and beyond,” it added.
Similarly, the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, while mourning the passing of Ogogo, described him as a custodian of culture, a gifted storyteller, and a proud ambassador of Yoruba heritage.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the management and staff extended their heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Nollywood and creative arts community.
“Taiwo Hassan was more than an actor. He was a custodian of culture, a gifted storyteller, and a proud ambassador of Yoruba heritage. Through his remarkable career, he entertained generations while showcasing and preserving the Yoruba rich cultural values on stage and screen.
“He dedicated many years to the promotion of Yoruba culture, theatre, and the entertainment industry. His contributions to the creative sector helped shape the cultural landscape of Lagos State and Nigeria, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come,” the commissioner said.
Ogogo died on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the age of 66 after a battle with stage-four cancer.
His daughter, Kira Hassan, confirmed the death during an emotional Instagram Live session, where she struggled to contain her emotions while breaking the news to family members and followers.
“My daddy is dead. I can’t believe it,” Kira said.
She was seen surrounded by family members during the session and appealed for assistance to return home to join her family for her father’s burial.
A family friend also confirmed the death in a phone conversation with Channels Television, while veteran actor Jide Kosoko separately confirmed the development.
Ogogo’s death came days after his family publicly disclosed that he had been diagnosed with stage-four cancer.
His death has triggered an outpouring of grief from colleagues, friends, fans and other members of Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
